The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Soccsksargen (DENR-Soccsksargen) has taken formal action against an event organizer for holding a major sports competition at a protected lake without proper authorization. This development coincides with the local government's announcement of the site's annual seasonal closure, highlighting ongoing tensions between tourism use and environmental protection.
Notice of Violation for Unpermitted Aquathlon
The DENR-Soccsksargen office issued a Notice of Violation and Show Cause Order to Body Kinetix Event Services and Management. The regulatory action concerns the "Holonman Aquathlon 2025," which was held on October 26, 2025, at the Lake Holon Campsite. The event proceeded without securing a mandatory permit from the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB), which governs activities within the Allah Valley Protected Landscape.
While the aquathlon was coordinated with the Municipal Government of T'boli, it lacked the specific PAMB clearance required for any activity inside a nationally protected area. The DENR's order compels the organizer to explain why they should not face further legal and administrative penalties for the breach.
Annual Conservation Closure for Lake Holon
Separately, in a move that underscores the site's ecological sensitivity, the T'boli local government unit (LGU) has declared the temporary closure of Lake Holon to all tourists and hikers. The shutdown is scheduled from January 3 until March 2026, as mandated by Municipal Executive Order No. 63, Series of 2025.
This closure is a recurring conservation strategy implemented annually. Its primary goal is to allow the pristine ecosystem of Lake Holon, also known as Lake Maughan, to recover from the cumulative effects of human visitation. The period of rest helps protect biodiversity, maintain the lake's status as one of the country's cleanest inland bodies of water, and prevent degradation from foot traffic, waste, and camping.
Significance and Sustainable Management
Lake Holon is not just a natural wonder but also a culturally sacred site for the Indigenous T'boli people. Nestled within Mt. Melibengoy in South Cotabato, its management is a shared responsibility. The PAMB sets conservation policy, while the T'boli LGU manages tourism.
Authorities note that the annual closure aligns with the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (E-NIPAS) Act, which prioritizes sustainable management and biodiversity conservation. During past closure periods, the LGU and DENR have conducted essential maintenance, including:
- Trail rehabilitation and repair.
- Extensive clean-up operations.
- Scientific ecological assessments to monitor the site's health.
The T'boli LGU is currently processing its application for a Special Use Agreement in Protected Area (SAPA), a legal document required for the sustainable and regulated operation of tourism within the protected landscape.
A Call for Cooperation and Future Preservation
The dual announcements from the DENR and the LGU send a clear message about the importance of rules and rest for protected areas. Officials are calling on all stakeholders—tourists, mountaineering groups, tour operators, and event organizers—to strictly respect the closure order and support conservation measures.
Protecting Lake Holon today ensures that its natural beauty and cultural significance remain intact for future generations. The framework of responsible ecotourism, which includes adhering to permit processes and observing closure periods, is deemed essential for the long-term survival of this iconic Philippine destination.
